spreads nyt crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're tackling the New York Times crossword and got stuck on "spreads", you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of potential solutions, categorized by their letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle.
Solutions for "spreads nyt crossword" by Letter Count
3 Letters
PAT: A small, flat piece of butter, often served with a meal, which is a common 'spread'.
JAM: A sweet food made from fruit and sugar, boiled and preserved, designed to be 'spread' on bread.
6 Letters
COVERS: To extend over or across a surface; to 'spread' across an area.
SMEARS: To spread (a greasy or sticky substance) untidily over a surface; to 'spread' thickly.
7 Letters
BUTTERS: Plural of butter, a common dairy 'spread' used on bread or toast.
10 Letters
MARGARINES: Plural of margarine, a butter substitute 'spread' made from vegetable oils.
More About "spreads nyt crossword"
The clue "spreads" is a classic example of a versatile crossword term that can have multiple interpretations, making it a favorite for constructors and a challenge for solvers. Its ambiguity can refer to food items (like butter or jam), the act of distributing information (like news or rumors), or even the physical act of extending something over a surface (like a blanket or paint). The key to solving such clues often lies in the crossing letters provided by other answers in the puzzle.
When you encounter "spreads," consider the context. Is the puzzle themed around food, communication, or spatial relationships? Sometimes, the clue might hint at a specific type of spread, such as a "meal spread" (FEAST) or a "table spread" (CLOTH). Always pay attention to whether the clue is singular or plural, as this directly affects the answer's form.
Understanding these different facets of "spreads" will not only help you solve the current puzzle but also improve your overall crossword-solving skills by recognizing common wordplay patterns used in the New York Times and other popular crosswords.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Part of Speech: Is "spreads" used as a noun (the food) or a verb (the action)? This can significantly narrow down potential answers.
- Consider Common Crossword Meanings: Some words have highly favored definitions in crosswords. For "spreads," think about food items and verbs of distribution or extension.
- Look at Adjacent Clues: The surrounding clues and their answers will provide critical crossing letters, which are often the best indicators for ambiguous clues like "spreads."
- Think of Synonyms and Homophones: Brainstorm various synonyms for "spread," or even words that sound similar but have different meanings, though "spreads" is less common for homophones.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'spreads' mean in a crossword clue?
'Spreads' in a crossword clue is versatile. It can refer to food items designed for spreading (like butter or jam), the act of distributing something over an area (like news or a blanket), or even an arrangement of items (like a lavish 'spread' of food).
Are 'spreads' answers usually plural or singular?
The answer can be either plural or singular, depending on the specific nuance the clue is aiming for. If the clue implies multiple instances or a general category, it might be plural (e.g., BUTTERS). If it refers to an action or a single item, it could be singular (e.g., COVERS, JAM).
How can I find 'spreads' answers more easily?
Consider the context of the puzzle – is it a food-themed puzzle? Also, look at the number of letters required. Common answers include food items (JAM, PAT, BUTTERS), verbs (COVERS, SMEARS), or abstract concepts (RUMORS). Think of synonyms for 'distributes', 'expands', 'covers', or types of 'food items'.